Camp is an integral part of our Pastoral Program. Our goal is to nurture spirited hearts, and what better way than to be out in nature, building connections, challenging ourselves and embracing new experiences?

We know that it is often through challenge that we grow. Increasingly, and understandably, we want to remove discomfort for our children. It is difficult to see them struggle or worry. However, in doing so, we can sometimes remove the very opportunities that help them discover what they are capable of.

Just like building physical strength, we need opportunities to practise doing hard things. Confidence is built through evidence: evidence of a time when something felt difficult and we worked through it; when we felt nervous and gave it a go anyway. One small moment of bravery, one step outside our comfort zone, can open the door to so many possibilities.

So, as you discuss camp with your daughter this week, model positivity and confidence while also validating her feelings. It is okay to feel nervous, uncertain or uncomfortable. We don’t need to remove those feelings. Instead, we can reassure her that she is safe, supported and capable.

Encourage her to embrace camp fully: to let go of devices and familiar routines, to try the food and activities, and to trust the experience. There is structure, safety and care surrounding her.

The gift of camp often lies in those moments we cannot plan: the laughter, the friendships strengthened, the conversations in nature and the pride that comes from stretching beyond what we thought was possible.

Top Tips

• Let your daughter take the lead on packing. Encourage your daughter to pack her own bag, using the list to check things off as she goes. You can be there to help, but let her take some ownership. It is a small but important step towards independence.
• Keep the conversation positive. Even if you are going to miss her, try to keep your language about camp positive and hopeful. Let her hear that you believe this will be a great experience and, most importantly, that you believe in her.
• It is okay to be nervous. We don’t need to take the worry away or have all the answers. Acknowledge how she is feeling, reassure her that she will be well cared for, and remind her that she can do hard things.
• Support the school’s guidance around technology and food. Please resist the temptation to pack the extra device, snacks or “just in case” items. Part of the gift of camp is letting go of some of the comforts and control of home and embracing the experience fully.
• Encourage her to have a go. She doesn’t have to love every activity, but encourage her to step outside her comfort zone, try something new and be open to the experience. One small act of bravery can build confidence for the next.
• Remind her that camp doesn’t need to be perfect to be wonderful. There may be moments that are uncomfortable, tiring or challenging, alongside the laughter, friendships and fun. Often, it is working through those moments that brings the greatest growth.